Written By Lisa Murimi
In an unusual turn of events, tadpoles in Cumbria have decided not to transform into frogs this year due to adverse weather conditions.
Typically, tadpoles in the UK begin their metamorphosis into frogs in April and May, but some have been spotted still swimming in the rivers of West Cumbria as autumn sets in.
Jodie Mills from the West Cumbria Rivers Trust reported the sighting of these tadpoles in the Walkmill Community Woodland, near Moresby Parks.
Mills explained that tadpoles make a decision early in the year whether to stay as tadpoles or transition into frogs based on environmental factors like temperature and food availability.
“If conditions are poor—such as overcrowding or cold temperatures—tadpoles might delay their metamorphosis,” Mills said.
The colder-than-usual weather this year seems to have prompted many tadpoles to remain in their aquatic state.
Despite this delay, the tadpoles are expected to survive the winter, giving them a size advantage over next year’s spring-spawned tadpoles.
Though unusual, these tadpoles have adapted well to their river habitat, and Mills reassured that the flowing water reduces the risk of freezing, helping them endure the cold months ahead.
